The Standards Committee of Barking and Dagenham Council met on Monday 02 February 2026 to discuss social media guidance for councillors, anticipated changes to the councillor standards regime under the Localism Act 2011, and an update on complaints. The committee noted reports on all three agenda items.

Social Media Guidance for Members

The committee received a report on draft social media guidance for councillors, which aims to provide clarity on how to use social media responsibly. The guidance, developed after consultation with members, covers roles and responsibilities, working with the Council's Communications Team, using personal and corporate social media accounts, and the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Councillors were advised that AI should be used with caution as it can provide inaccurate information and does not absolve them of responsibility for defamation or breaches of the Council's Code of Conduct. Support is available from the Monitoring Officer for councillors facing online abuse and harassment. The committee noted the report.

The Localism Act 2011: Expectation of Statutory Changes to the Councillor Standards Regime

A report was presented on anticipated statutory changes to the councillor standards regime, stemming from a Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government document published in November 2025. These proposed reforms include the introduction of a mandatory national code of conduct for all local authorities, a requirement for principal authorities to convene formal standards committees, and enhanced powers for authorities to suspend councillors for serious breaches of conduct, with the option to withhold allowances. The report also outlined proposals for a national appeals function and interim suspension powers for councillors under investigation. While the draft legislation has not yet been published, it is expected to amend the Local Government Act 2000 and the Localism Act 2011, with legislation likely to be enacted in late 2027. The committee noted the report.

Complaints Update

The committee received an update on complaints made against councillors. The Principal Governance and Standards Solicitor highlighted that complaints often increase in the year leading up to elections and noted that the Council does not accept anonymous complaints regarding councillors, distinguishing this from the Council's Whistleblowing Policy. The report detailed the status and outcomes of complaints received, with many dismissed due to lack of evidence, being out of time, or not meeting the public interest test. The committee noted the report.